Your Story Deserves a Hollywood Ending
The Latino story is the stuff of legend. It’s equal parts thriller and comedy; romance and drama. It’s a superhero origin story, and yes, even a tale of perseverance in the face of adversity. With Spotlight Dorado, McDonald’s is giving aspiring Latino screenwriters a chance to have their screenplay produced into a short film with invaluable mentorship from some of the most influential Latino voices in film and have their short film presented in film festivals around the country. It’s your story, and the world needs to see it!
Submit Your StoryThe Program
Spotlight Dorado was created to empower and amplify aspiring Latino voices across different industries, starting off with film. We’re not just here to open doors, but to champion the creativity, talent and determination of Latino creators across the country.
Learn More About Spotlight DoradoBehind The Scenes
Spotlight Dorado finalists will receive guidance and mentorship from some of the most recognized Latinos in the film industry as they bring their vision to life.
Meet the Mentors
Stephanie Beatriz
Actor
Stephanie Beatriz can currently be heard voicing the starring role in Disney’s animated feature Encanto which won the Academy Award® for best animated feature. She also recently starred in the sold-out run of 2:22 A Ghost Story in London’s West End.
Carlos López Estrada
Director
Carlos’ third film, Raya And The Last Dragon was released by Disney in March of 2021 and was nominated for an Academy Award® for Best Animated Feature. His debut film, Blindspotting, premiered opening night at Sundance 2018 and was subsequently released by Lionsgate Entertainment.
Want To Be A Finalist?
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Who can participate:
The contest is open to all U.S.-based Latino writers, directors, producers, and content creators including film school students, self-taught and independent filmmakers, and DACA recipients.
See The Rules -
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Entering is easy:
Pitch your screenplay on FilmFreeway. All entries will be judged by a panel of industry insiders and experts. Read our full contest rules here.
Submit Your Story -
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How it works:
All submissions are judged by a panel of industry experts. Ten (10) semifinalists will be selected on July 11th before announcing the three (3) finalists on August 1st. Each finalist will be given a budget to produce their short film. Three (3) films will then be submitted to a popular vote to determine the winner.
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